Dan Forrester

There’s no getting away from it: writing can be a lonely business. If you’re not writing, the chances are you’re thinking about writing. Or feeling guilty that you’re not writing (or guilty that you’re not even thinking about writing). It’s all too easy to get tunnel vision, to be consumed and forget to look up once in a while. To emerge from the darkness.

For support. For camaraderie. For inspiration.

I’ve been a member of many writing groups and associations over the years and have taken (and I hope given!) a lot to each one. I’ve listened to different viewpoints, taken on advice, learned new skills and, most importantly, made lifelong friends. I’ve also attended local author events – fortunately Oldham library has a rich history of hosting authors both local and from far-flung places like “the South”. It helps me feel connected.

But this last year I’ve neglected this part of my writing life. Life has just got in the way, as it has a habit of doing. My focus has been too inward, too isolating. It’s not good for the soul. It’s not good for the writing.

So, when I saw Oldham Library was hosting a panel of crime writers, I booked my ticket, and I’m so glad I did. 

There were three authors on the panel, each sharing the benefits of their experience. Of course, some advice chimed with how I already approach my writing, some opened my eyes to new ideas, but that wasn’t really the point for me. It was about being inspired, reminded that writing can take you anywhere, from anywhere. You see, they all had their own story. Their own battle. From literacy to illness, from publishers folding to seemingly impossible deadlines.

So thank you Chris McDonald (Chris Frost), Karen Woods and David Nolan for reminding me to look up once in a while.

I urge you to do the same.